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Thursday, 4 August 2016

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry Wish Team GB Good Luck!

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry have sent a good luck message to Great Britain's athletes ahead of the Rio 2016 Olympic Games Opening Ceremony tomorrow. The video can be viewed on YouTube.

In the one-and-a-half-minute video, William, Kate and Harry reflected on the success of London 2012 with footage of members of the Royal family cheering on Team GB, and a shot of the Olympic flame being carried.

Prince William said: "London 2012 saw this country come alive with a passion for sport. It saw people of all ages, and from all walks of life, join together to support Team GB."

Harry added: "Each member of Team GB will have a unique journey, but they all share the same aim – to deliver the best performance they possibly can."

Kate said: "London 2012 showcased the best of British sport, and we are all so excited to see what can be achieved in Rio."

As the video concluded William told viewers: "We have some of the most passionate supporters in the world, and we can't wait to cheer on our athletes together this time around in Rio." Finally the royals wished Team GB good luck, and Kate said, "We can't wait to watch everyone compete." Harry ended with: 'Let's top 2012. Bring on the Great!'

'Some 366 British athletes will compete in 23 sports at the Games, hoping they will be able to better the 47 medals won at Beijing in 2008 and make Rio 2016 the most successful away from home territory for Team GB. At London in 2012, Britain won 65 meals, a tally beaten only once before by Team GB at London in 1908, when they won 146 medals.'

All three royals are avid sports fans and relished their roles as ambassadors during the London 2012 games. They attended a host of sporting events and receptions in support of Team GB. Royal aides said the possibility of William, Kate and Harry travelling to Rio was discussed, however, a Kensington Palace spokeswoman told the Express "that the potential danger from the mosquito-born Zika virus had played no part in their decision not to go. They look at the possibility of doing all sorts of things and then don't do them for various reasons. In this case, the Zika virus played no part in their decision".

It would appear William and Kate's portion of the video was recorded during their visit to Portsmouth on 24 July.

We also have an update on next month's tour of Canada. Details and early information are beginning to trickle in. An anonymous commenter kindly shared a link to this CBC News story which reports the Cambridges will be in Whitehorse on 28 September:

'They're expected to arrive in Whitehorse on Sept. 28, and spend a day in the territory with the prime minister and his wife, as well as Gov. Gen. David Johnston. Events and activities — not yet announced — will be within "driving distance" from Whitehorse, the email says.

On Wednesday, Yukon government spokesperson Sarah Crane said details in the email are not certain, however, and have changed. "It's unconfirmed and developing," she said, but would not say what has changed at this time. This will be Prince William and Kate Middleton's first visit to Yukon, and their first visit to the North since 2011, when they went to the N.W.T. It will also be Trudeau's first visit to Yukon since becoming prime minister.'

Several readers noted Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his wife Sophie have young children, should William and Kate elect to take George and Charlotte along, it may be a nice opportunity for both families to get together.

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Finally, we are delighted to announce the winner of our Azuni London giveaway is Camilla Andrade who shared the following comment: "I signed up for the newsletter and liked the facebook page! Thank you for this post and great giveaway!" Congratulations, Camilla! If you could be so kind as to email me at hrhcatherineblog@hotmail.com we'll organise delivery of your jewellery. :)

128 comments:

I wish they would have attended the game in person, though I understand why they decided not to go, so the video is very nice. I will say that Kate looks kinda odd in this video, in that her face seems very elongated. Did anyone else notice that? Or was It just me?

I hope they're enjoying their vacation in France and I can't wait for the Canadian tour. However, I don't think KP will be happy with these leaks, which I'm assuming come from the PM office. I feel like this tour will be very unconventional because so far details surrounding the tour have been presented in a very unconventional way.

If they went they would have been accused of "going on holiday". They have no official role in this years olympics so it makes sense that only Anne (member of the IOC) is representing the royal family. But I think it's very nice that they made the video!

And family likely complete-Wessexes. Are the Paralympics also in Rio? Are Charles and wife attending? ( that's for you, royalfan) Beatrice and Eugenie? I know Zara did not make the team, but is she attending? Harry has previous commitments in Africa? Since the dates of the Rio Olympics have been known for years, it is difficult to imagine how that conflict in dates came about. This was a chance to make the statement some demand of them. Other than Zika, the consequences of which which we might more fully understand, once theGames are over, security and other issues are a concern.

I think the "Olympic Spirit" still exists-the opportunity for individuals fromall over the world to come together peacefully and bond as humans and athletes-but it remains a huge commercial enterprise. The spirit is sometimes compromisedby cheating and the needs of the mega-corporation sponsors.

The World economy isn't getting any better. If the Olympics are to survive, Ithink a moratorium should be placed on building an Olympic complex every two years (Winter/Summer) in a different city. How do some of those cities cope with the aftermath? I think going forward, existing sites only should be used.

What uses do the facilities have in subsequent years? If no one has writtenan analysis or investigation into this question, now would be the time.I can't even imagine what the fall-out from the Rio Olympics will be.

Sometimes the use of diplomacy and expediency can mask a disaster in the making. I'm thinking of the days and months leading up to WWII, but there aremany examples.There were voices then, too, warning us of the dangers, but theywere largely ignored or discounted.

Yes, work is created-the question is-are they all, excluding the volunteers, getting paid? There were fire/policemen with large placards that said they had not been paid. My point was there should be more emphasis on feasibility studiesand benefit/cost analysis. Maybe if there were a "stand-in" city with existingfacilities in the event of unforeseen emergencies such as disease,economicinstability, or political events that threaten security.

Not at all keen on sports but it's a nice video - best wishes to athletes from every country represented by readers on this blog - and indeed to all the athletes for they all work terribly hard. It was nice to see the Danish family present.

First love that the three of them are doing this together, again!! The three of them are a winning combination and remember once that Harry said Kate is the sister he didn't have, so this trio does well in sending this message. Completely understand why not attending, but the video is inspiring and a good gesture in the absence of attending. Agree with Amelia about both William and Kate' facing looking somewhat elongated and a little colorless...??? Not that they don't look good, but surprising that the quality of the video of the two of them isn't a tad more flattering.

All athletes should be applauded for their efforts as they do work hard as Julia said. So good luck to all countries represented and in the spirit of the commraderie on this blog, happy that we can all come together and cheer on all the successes! cc

Congratulations Camilla! I hope you enjoy your special and lovely jewelry. You will especially enjoy wearing it because you won it on this wonderful blog site!Thank you so much Charlotte for all the pleasure you bring to each of us! We love you! And I must say that I appreciate all of you and your varying opinions, comments and what you bring to this special community!

I asked Leo what his thoughts were on those very strange shots on the video and he thinks it has to do with the perspective they were taken at not matching the one they were shown - my words, not his. Similar to what someone said here. What a pity because it is a nice tribute to the athletes otherwise.

I pretty much agree with everyone here - I support the athletes, have doubts about the games and think William and Kate's response was a diplomatic one and the only sensible one. I was surprised Charlene spoke so bluntly but since Albert is on the committee (or whatever) she would be expected to attend. William and Kate weren't expected to - other than some speculation.

Thank you for posting the video Charlotte! Very nice. I personally don't believe in the Olympics anymore (love the smaller competitions like Harry's Invictus Games however) but it is polite to cheer people on for whom they do mean something. I agree that the video looked odd but then it is Youtube and videos aren't always good on Youtube. What I don't understand is why KP had to say that their decision not to go had nothing to do with the Zika virus. So what if it had? As other articles have pointed out, Princess Mary is probably finished childbearing so the Zika virus really doesn't matter to her. Comparing the Danish couple's decision to a royal couple who are 10 years younger is unfair. Princess Charlene decided not to go as well. And Harry not going? Well, obviously he wants children too. Another reason for W & K is probably the Canada trip. It isn't cheap for the Royals to fly overseas "officially" and they were in India this Spring so skipping Brazil makes sense on a number of levels. Really don't know why the press (not you, darling Charlotte) makes such a big deal of it and why KP even had to mention it.

Same thought here on KP's statement, Valerie. Perhaps out of respect for the athletes who do not have a choice? But whatever the media does or does not make of it, I fully support the decision for all three.

I imagine not mentioning Zika as a reason has something to do with being diplomatic - it makes Brazil look bad and encourages people not to go because it may be dangerous - things that royals from another country probably shouldn't do.

I agree on The Diplomacy Factor. Face it, had they said it was the Zika Virus.... That would have opened its own can of worms that the press could have had a field day with, not to mention giving the rumor mill a huge boost on a variety of speculation fronts. It especially could have been used as tacit confirmation about W&K wanting to expand their family soon. I think they went with the best option.... less is more.

I agree that both Kate and William's shots look very strange in this video. Kate's is the worst though. It is ashame that the video is not as polished as it could be. It almost has the feeling of being put together/edited at the last minute. I hope the Cambridges have enjoyed their vacation in France. I know that there were multiple reasons why they decided not to go to the Olympics, but I am glad they chose not to. If William and Kate plan to have another child, it would not be a good idea to risk being exposed to the Zika virus. They made a smart decision. Harry has commitments in Africa during this time, so I also understand why he didn't go.

Wow! I'm very surprised and amazed that I won this giveaway!I will indeed enjoy very much my new jewelry not only because like Alexandra said, it comes from this wonderful blog and the Azuni brand, but also because the result came in this post about the Olimpic Games we are just about to launch here in Brazil. So this makes it very special to me!Of course I wish the royals could come for the Olimpics, but their reason for not coming is understandable.

Well, thank you very much Charlotte and Azuni London! this giveaway was a special one to me! :)

Hello Camilla! Enjoy your jewelry. What a special time for you! I am watchingthe parade of the countries at the opening ceremonies. I am so impressed withRio's choice of a green/global warming theme.The children carrying potted plants ,walking alongside the flag bearers are delightful. I absolutely love the pedi-cart brightly-embellished gardening stations leading each delegation. Over ten thousand trees, one for each athlete, will create a new forest.Well done, Rio/ Brazil!You have brought off a miracle.anon 14:35

Anonymous, I wish I could go to see the games but I cannot afford to go there... Rio can be very expensive especially in events like this and we are facing a big recession in Brazil, so we must be quite careful when spending money. But I am following the games on the tv.We also enjoyed very much the opening ceremony! It made us proud of our country and our culture. I believe it represented a moment to breath proudly and brought some hope which we are in need for years!

hmm I love the royal trio send good luck to team gb hmm if they come there going to show there what the point going there they have no role hmm people bashing them for not attending then if they attend there accused after holiday they have negative comments its seems the Cambridge taped that American races camp

For a group that admires Kate so much, surprisingly few comments about how unequal the Olympics in bringing the best in all of us and in allowing every nation to play on equal field. There is nothing anywhere close to it!

How is this for a serious comment... I feel for the athletes and do not understand how they ended up in the position they are in! YOUNG athletes facing the Zika threat AND what appears to be a serious lack of sanitary conditions. How utterly unfair that they have to deal with this given the years of training and strong desire to follow their dreams. What a reward!

Anon 22:01 -- I felt that this is the Kate blog so not the right forum for my personal views on the Olympics in general and these Rio Olympics in particular. I am glad, though, that W, H & K support local sporting events in England. Much more important than the Olympics IMO. We should encourage young people to do their best at a sport for the sheer joy of it, not for endorsements and fame.

Thanks alot Charlotte. You are always so kind. I do really love your blog alot. You don't have to thank, infact i and we all thank you for your hard work and the information you provide us with quality pictures. I hope when ever you join tumbler i would know first. Faiza, Pakistan

Perhaps the title of this article should be "Deja vu." :) And yes, I realize we're talking about the DM, but I happen to think that the bones fit. This "poor Charles" stuff brings me right back to the 80's and 90's when "sources" were talking on behalf of Charles in an attempt to make him the victim in his marriage and a more sympathetic figure in general. The strategy didn't work then, and it won't work today; William has a set and he will not allow Kate's family (and her by association!) to be maligned in the press.

This may be a classic example of you reap what you have sown. Given Charles' priorities as William (and Harry) was (were) growing up (especially after Diana's death), it is not surprising that his son filled the void elsewhere. The Windsor's should be *grateful* to the Middleton's for the love and support they have given William over the years, and for making him a better man/husband/father by providing a fine example of how a loving and nurturing family functions. I think they role-modeled the hopes and dreams Diana had for her sons' future.

I do not believe the Middleton's are monopolizing their grandchildren; I think they have always been a close family and this continued after G&C were born. And why on earth not? As I've said before, if they were meddling in-laws, I doubt that the close bond with William would exist.

To be fair, Charles' schedule may not be as flexible, and I don't think Highgrove offers the type of relaxed setting one would be drawn to with little ones, but it doesn't excuse the apparent goal here.

Okay, now someone please tell me again how people change and how the jealousy that existed in prior chapters isn't alive and well in 2016. Meanwhile, I have a bridge to sell... And any bets on how close this source may be? Hmmm....

I agree with everything Royalfan. Airing personal problems in the media is an old habit of Charles. It is surprising that he cannot pick up the phone and call his own son. No wonder William ran for the hills. And I also agree about the source. Deja vu all over again.

Textbook Charles. I think Diana used to tell him rather than to complain about how things are portrayed in the media, he would do better to spend more time creating (by doing) stories to reflect what he wants to see. The Middletons are doing what they have done for years - be a close supportive family. If that leaves Charles threatened, rather than complain he should take a page out of their book, roll up his sleeves and offer to be selflessly involved. I would dare say he had no interest in having Will and Kate move in with their new baby as they adjusted to parenthood. He loves his life, ordered to his specifications. And that's fine, he need not change. But don't begrudge others in the family constellation when their approaches provide them with more bonding opportunities and more "real life" experiences with their grandchildren. Sour grapes. But nothing new. Charles resented Diana's success in many realms but never put two and two together that maybe HER approach was part of the success, and HIS approach was part of his problem. A smart intelligent man, but severely limited by decades of coddling and listening to his own echo chamber. Sigh.

Thanks for sharing the article royalfan. I agree with you about if this is the strategy, then it's not really fooling anybody. I do not think, nor have I ever thought even though the tabloids would convince you otherwise, that Mike and Carol Middleton are a meddlesome and controlling twosome! In fact, after having read and learned more about Mike Middleton's family history and participation in WWI, their stock went up in my mind. Even for all their affluence, the Middleton's never appear entitled or pretentious and they have done an exceptional job of raising three children who are close as siblings and in all honesty "good kids"! I see the Middleton's as royalfan describes, a "fine example of how a loving and nurturing family functions". No wonder William is drawn to them and I am sure that they view him as a son. What parent would not want that type of relationship for their children from their inlaws? There is no need for jealousy here, or rather there shouldn't be any jealousy. It is not a competition. It is not uncommon in many relationship that the daughter's mother is somewhat more hands on and plays an important role (not in all instances, but by and large) in their grandchildren's lifes. Royals aside, why should it be any different for Kate given how close she is to her mother.

I believe as the article implies at the end that the Middleton's have stepped back out of circumspect because that is the type of people that they are....respectful and decent. They will always be George and Charlotte's grandparents and nothing, not even Prince Charles can change that. Whatever involvement the Middleton's have in George and Charlottes lifes it is by the consent of William and Kate and who wouldn't want their children to know that kind of love. Your relationship with your grandchildren is what you make it to be!

This feels somewhat like damage control for the article that came out about William and Harry's childhood following their mother's death.

Sadly, when there is no dirt to be found, someone needs to kick it up and make some! cc

It is interesting that Anne and Charles grew up in the same circumstances with the same parental role models, yet they had such completely different views towards parenting. Anne by all accounts was and is very close to her children and it is obvious that she is hands on and loving towards her grandchildren as well. The pictures with Mia make that clear - there is no faking it. On the other hand you have pictures of Charles looking at his grandson with some distant interest as if he is some sort of interesting specimen of fossil that one admires in a museum. I think there is some sort of family drama brewing in the royal family. There have been consecutive articles alluding to Diana, the Middletons and now Camilla and Diana. There is something going on. Usually when there is a spate of articles targeting one topic it is a sign that there is some fire beneath the smoke.

12:59, your comment would have a lot more credibility if we could hold you accountable for the comments you have expressed on this blog. Clearly, I am not alone in appreciating the deja vu factor here, but go ahead and make it about me if you wish.

5:06, Ariagurl, and 16:23, no arguments from me! I agree with your thoughts on the subject and am glad you chimed in.

22:01, every time I see photos of Anne enjoying time with Mia, I am reminded of Charles with his hands in his pockets as he stands with Kate and George during at the polo match in 2015. Day and night! Whatever his reasons/issues may be, they are his alone and the Middleton's should not be maligned because of it.

As far as inconsistencies toward DM, that tabloid is itself inconsistent.There are times (rare, as far as I can tell) that DM lets a reliable,fact-based, well-written and edited story fall through the cracks. Using the DM as an example of poor writing is not equivalent to endorsing thetabloid.Actually,anon 12:59, your comment is not really very logical.

Oh come on, royalfan. You have disparaged Katie Nicholl and Daily Mail time and time again (to borrow a phrase from Kate's usual mental health statements and speeches :P) on this blog, but now you are just immediately accepting that this article is true and based in fact and real sources? Just because now Katie and DM are picking on someone you don't like? Guess all those Waitie Katie stories must have been fair too then....

Also Charles has had a great PR staff since they've focused on rehabilitating his image (and Camilla's) after Diana died. Being written about as though you are a lousy grandfather isn't good PR. I think they know that. ESP the part at the end, btw, where it mentions the Middletons being mortified and trying to ramify the problem...does anyone think Charles would have ever endorsed THAT? And every time one of these articles comes out, even the DM comments mostly focus on making fun of Charles for not just trying harder. Seriously, this would be terrible PR if released by his office and they have done such an excellent job PR-wise that I just find it hard to believe that they would mess this up over and over again.

This article could be true. It could also be written with "the shoe fits" in mind with smidges of air from the past to make people feel like it's correct. I dont know, could be either way, but I will not take it as facts.

The end of the article says a lot, and I think the Middletons have deliberately stepped out of the limelight, which was burning them unfairly. After the pictures of Carole and George on the beach, and the letter to the press, it must have been obvious that their interactions would have to be in private henceforth. Also, the Middletons' marriage had been maligned after Charlotte was born. They have a life to live, a business to run, and their reputation to maintain. Articles like this one must be extremely unwelcome to them. I doubt their return to a quiet life is as much about Charles as it is about protecting their entire family, including Kate's, from intrusion and harsh criticism.

Maggie, as aurigurl stated, this is "textbook Charles". And, by association, Camilla as she did HER share of communicating via the press during the marriage of C&D. And before you jump on me for THIS statement, please note that Julia has stated the very same thing on this blog.

The PR goal here was to put him in victim status; and not make him out to be a lousy grandfather, as you suggest. I'm sorry, but the bones fit. And the youth and popularity that W&K offer must be equally unsettling for Charles (and Camilla) today as it was for him decades ago when he was in Diana's shadow.

What an accute observation about the relationship between fans and DM! Couldn't agree more!

On the other hand, as it is many times in life, this whole royal family vs Middletons/William is not black and white. I prefer to stay in the middle as we know nothing about what happens- be aware- behind the curtains.LOL

For whatever the reasons the Middletons have stepped back for the moment, I think it is wise. They were getting a little too much attention - and this would apply to any family of a royal member. It doesn't mean they don't stay close to their daughter - just a little less public presence - better for everyone including them.We know now that Charles used the press during Diana's days (as did she) - and it seems quite likely he is doing the same thing again. That doesn't mean that he is writing the articles (which as Maggie points out, isn't favourable completely to him) - I suspect it more a case of hints being dropped to established royal reporters.I agree with royalfan - watching Anne with her grandchildren and watching that one chance we had with Charles, it's easy to notice a difference. Charles has little instinct about children in general - watching Camilla have to nudge him to pick up her granddaughter at the wedding and there are similar instances. It's also worth remembering that while William and Harry are polite to Camilla there have been reports they try to keep their distance from her - that would also explain why Charles isn't getting much contact - which the article didn't really mention.I've just been reading Clint Hill's book about Jackie Kennedy from a few years back and have to contrast that respectful tone with the more gossipy style of Ken Warfe - at least as excerpted. But I don't need any book to cement my feelings about Camilla and her conduct towards Diana - those cringe-inducing photos of her with a young Diana - clearly with Diana so miserably uncomfortable say it all. Camilla had no business in that marriage - Charles should have told her to stay away from Diana, and if she was a decent person, not a woman on the make, she would have known that herself. Any young woman would feel threatened by the situation.

I normally don't dismiss all DM articles when they come out in a spate like the ones have in the past week. Usually when they do that the editors are trying to tell us something.

Charles has always worked the way Julia says. Charles' PR people have a brief chat with royal reporters where they drop hints. There are lots of accounts of how it worked in the Diana Charles era. Dickie Arbiter goes into details of that. Richard Kay in his articles on Mark Bolland also alludes to how they got inside information or "leaks" from the palace. Camilla of course would pick up the phone and call the editor of Sun directly - that came out during the News of the World trials, if I am not mistaken.Charles is not going to sit there writing the article. Nor are his PR people going to proof read them after they were written. Katie Nicolls was probably chatted up and she wrote her own take on it.

I think that her spin is painting the dynamic as an outright war between Charles and the Middletons, where reality could be that there has been mutual distancing for various reasons. Maybe the Middletons are keeping distance for their own reasons. That does not stop KN from painting it as Middletons getting the shaft. But amidst all this spin I believe that there are nuggets of truth, where the "insider" comes out and makes direct statements - these are most likely to be true. For example the statement that Charles was upset at not knowing about the ski trip - this is from the horse's mouth (horse being the PR team member). The statement where he says that they don't call each other. Or that he feels that he should see the grandchildren more. There are some true statements hidden in the spin - one needs to unearth them to find out what could plausibly be facts and what is KN having some fun with her audience.

Well said Julia. Had never seen those pictures before, but they are cringe-inducing and quite telling. For anyone who has been in a similar situation it is a heart wrenching feeling that can make the most civil person quite crazy. The nuances of a woman on the make aren't always tangible but they are discernible; Camilla was a woman on the make and Diana had every reason to be concerned. Am reminded of an old proverb that someone once told me, "don't go between the bark and the tree", you don't belong there. Camilla DID NOT belong in that marriage. cc

Julia, the Middleton's have always done what is in the best interest of their daughter and son-in-law and they will continue to do so. Privately, nothing will change, nor should it. But IF it has been Charles' "preference" that the Middleton's are not to be included in some of the events that they attended in the past, it will only cost him in the long run; William will not be manipulated and will stand up for his wife and children, like a man. If Charles had enjoyed a close relationship with William before G&C were born, it would continue today, as it does with the Middleton's. This isn't about the Middleton's IMO.

Perhaps the greater issue (or goal) here isn't even about Charles' role as a grandfather. Perhaps it has more to do with him being a more sympathetic figure and, by association, a better or more "human" king. How very ironic that as W&K continue to build on their roles, and are creating an unprecedented (among those at the top) solid and happy family environment under their own roof, SOMEONE feels the need to huff and puff in an attempt to blow it down. Besides Charles, who stands to gain if W&K's reputations are maligned? Who is not truly invested in their success? This really does appear to be a continuation of more of the same, with the same individuals hoping to end up on top in the popularity stakes. Has CH learned nothing? Given the unfortunate chapters of the 80's and 90's, W&K are exactly what the doctor prescribed for the RF. I think the Queen is well aware of it but, sadly, one or two members find the pills too difficult to swallow.

All IMO of course, but given what transpired in the 80's and 90's I am not shooting from the hip. Far from it.

I'm a bit late to the show, but I agree Maggie and Anett. We've been told Katie Nicholl has an axe to grind and is a dirty purveyor of lying lies by people on this very blog.

Personally I think the Middletons are being frozen out. I agree with her there. And if it's Charles doing it, then OK, but I think he's misguided to blame them. He should call his son and daughter in law and ask for time with his grandchildren if that's what he wants. Obviously waiting for them to call him isn't working.

Thanks for your take on KN, Claudia. However, if I say I wished I had a vacation more often doesn't necessarily mean I have no vacation hours available; it could simply mean I don't choose to vacation at this time for whatever reason.It is a matter of priorities.

I swallowed a nausea pill to help me swallow the KN story. There are so manyinconsistencies and editing errors in that article that I don't see how anyone could credit any of it.Right off, in a tag-line, it is stated that PC thinks the Middletons get "theirfair share" of the grandchildren. Yet, within the body of the story KN writesthat PC thinks the Ms get "MORE THAN their fair share"...Another- KN states in one part that the Cambridge family will be at Birkhall with PC in a few weeks (to illustrate that the Ms won't be there); that he attended George's 3d birthday tea party. Elsewhere, she states PC complains of being kept from his grandchildren andwanting them to holuday in Scotland as is tradition. Which is it?PC feels it is his right to mentor George, " THE heir." I'm assuming that's a typoor editorial error, since KN must realise Charles is the heir, followed by William-who were both mentored by HMTQ. Note-William by all reports was mentoredby HMTQ, not Charles, likely for a reason.Any King-mentoring a three year oldwould need is being managed by William in age-appropriate increments.This is a typically poorly written, poorly documented article making some fairlyserious statements and hints.The author may be sacrificing credibility for an "exclusive."

Again, there could be a very logical explaination for the Middleton's not being around as much as in pervious times. It is known as "normal family dynamics". In every newlywed's family there is a period of adjustment and the wife's family are more involved especially through the birth of the first child. By the time the second child arrives there has been a normal adjustment into their own family unit and the mothers family support are in a different role. While Kate and William still have the full support of the Middleton's they have made a successful transition into a healthy family unit of their own. As far as articles by the DM, I have to look at them all with a jaundice eye. I am becoming more and more concerned and very skeptical about what most of the media reports. They have their own agenda and to whatever end they have to go to make things look like they will twist and report the so called "facts" to achieve their objective.

I am probably going to be trashed for this but....I get mildly annoyed by the constant 'Diana is a saint, C/C are the devil'. Both sides had issues, both sides played the press and the people around them. Was Charles a loving, supportive husband? Not by what we saw. But for all his many faults(that were laid bare for the press and public), it was probably extremely difficult to go from a relationship with someone he loved/respected/shared common interests and passions with to someone he liked well enough but was shy/insecure/unsure/innocent/dramatic/moody. Charles, in reality, is probably just an odd, awkward person and when compared to come one who connects so easily to the general public('his people' if you will), he reacted badly/like an ass. Camilla may have made bad choices, but no matter what she does for the rest of her life, she will be vilified for not being Diana and for hurting Diana.

In terms of grandparenting, I am not surprised that he is more reserved. I would not have expected him to be a super cuddly grandpa. I think it was not modeled well to him as a kid, he didn't do it with W/H, so why would he start now? I am 100% certain he loves Queen/W/H/kids deeply but he is very reserved. Maybe growing up as a kid with mom thrust into the throne effected him in a different way than it did Ann....but that is all my own opinion.

I just can't help myself sometimes, because if this article has merit, then one also has to accept Carole Middleton swanning about KP like she owns it.

I do have a question, though, and I hope someone answers it because it's genuine. Assuming the media is a pack of lying liars with an axe to grind or an agenda to present, where are we supposed to get information regarding the royals? From their press releases and official statements? They're made to put the best possible spin, and may not be reliable in their way either by glossing over or ignoring not-so-great actions or words. The royals don't really do interviews, and if they do the questions are pre-approved and they won't answer questions they don't like. So where do we get unbiased information?

Personally I don't think you can get any unbiased reporting today whether it is Royals, politicians, celebrities etc. The royal reporting I find particularly bad, because one reporter writes an article and the rest of them repeat the same article verbatim. None of them seem to do any investigative journalism. Sources quoted can be used to spin the article as the reporter wishes and these sources are never substantiated. Social media also does not help credibility and many reporters are using this form of media as sources to report a story. I don't blame reporters, I just believe the media world has evolved so much that everyone is struggling to adjust and keep up and so sensationalism occurs. Public frenzy and the ability to remain anonymous in commentary is also driving this problem. I don't know what the answer is, but I sure look at all information with scepticism until it is proved with action. IMO

Good question. My answer is-you don't. Unless you somehow become a royal BFF.But then you'd be biased. Anyone close enough to know the real inside story1) would find it difficult to remain objective and 2) would likely keep the information to himself. There are books by former butlers, governesses, and a relative or two. They each have their biases and opinions.Eugenie recently did an interview,which was released about the same time as her sister's break up was news.I think the interview was a mistakeI guess the old maxim, "The truth lies somewhere in between" applies.

Thank you for the thoughtful responses, 2049 and 2309. I agree. I don't think we get unbiased articles either. I am not sure you can lay it all on the journalists' doors though. They get information from people, so the question should really be what the motivations of the person providing the information are. The British royal pack are royalists for the most part. They care about the royal family and they also care about accountability. When you have a lot of people who are quasi subsidized by public money of course there will be differing opinions as to whether they pull their weight or not.

As ridiculous stories go, in my book royalfan, nothing beats the Kate Middleton-Is-Dethroning-Queen Elizabeth headlines.Not William, but Kate. And not the Duchess ofCambridge-Kate Middleton. Yes, I clicked and I kicked myself for it.As the story goes, the Queen is abdicating in favor of William and Kate. Charles isstepping aside for the benefit of the future of GB. Camilla is said to be miffed.There is only one part of that story that is believable to me.Guess which part.There is only one Brooklyn Bridge, royalfan.

Right, royalfan. Although...if I had my 'druthers, and with the Japanese emperorhinting at retirement, the pressure may be on.But, as far as the story goes, a bunch of speculation based on speculation. Ilove that. Thanks,anon 05:10.

Even if they aren't going to the olympics they could've done something in honor of thenolympcis. For example maybe Kate could have had a watch party with people who are apart of sports aid Let's be honest that video was not well made and I think more of an effort could have been put in

Video quality aside, it served its purpose. IMHO, such a party would only invite criticism such as they didn't attend and chose to celebrate from a safe distance, with the Middleton's making money by supplying the party favors.

Sorry but this article like much of DMs stuff is wild speculation. Too me when I read this article I read just rampant speculation based on rampant speculation:). I am not a fan of this type of hyperbole.

So this article closely follows Katie Nicholl's. I wonder who is making these editorial decisions to print these ones and what the motivation is. Is Daily Mail stirring up trouble over a slow August ? ORIs this all part of Harry's and maybe tacitly, covertly William's plan to rehabilitate Diana's image ? William can't actually come out and go against Charles, is this way of covertly doing so? And I wonder whether Katie Nicholl's article, which was probably put forth by Camilla or Charles' camp was an attempt to preempt the negativity that would follow the Ken wharfe one? This has Charles' fingerprints all over it. And it is reminiscent of old times.Funny we are seeing all of this all over again this time against his son.

For two princes who are incredibly (and imo, overly) focused on privacy, it would be highly hypocritical if they are the ones leaking these things about their mother and father's interactions now. Although it makes sense - their privacy focus is all about control. They are fine with details being released as long as they are the details they want people to know, and absolutely nothing else. See the India tour for example.

Haven't read the articles yet (am reading from the bottom up) but I'm just so glad it sounds like Will & Harry are finally feeling they can take the steps they need to heal (just like all the young people they speak to helping re: Coping with loss etc) They do need to do whatever they feel they need to honor their Mother & Gosh I hope Charles lets them! I really hope he doesn't Botch it up all over again!? Me thinks it would not sit well with the public & backfire on C&C!...... Has he learned Nothing?

royalfan, love your thoughts:).......Ahhh Yes.... Karma!:) I must admit.... I've tried to like her, by focusing on what the boys have said about how happy she makes their father. However, that coupled with Diana's seemingly being airbrushed out of the BRF's History really has bothered me. Think how Diana changed the way they interact with the public & the awareness they now have of the importance of showing compassion etc..(especially as shown by WK&H)... I've always had a twinge of bad feeling towards how Camilla just seemed to effortlessly slip right in as if nothing had happened, other than Charles having his Heir & Spare.... as if dropped from The Heavens? Diana Did Change Things, Shook Things Up & Many of the Improvements that we see Today would likely Never have happened without her influence (pos or neg). She Did Give Birth & Raise 2 Great Sons! She Does Deserve Historical Respect in & from The BRF! Remember, They were the ones who did not offer her any support, such as Kate has received & She was placed into a Marriage under False Pretenses that hadn't much of a chance from the start..... without Camilla having Charles Heart, it still might not have worked... but they would have had a chance!

I love Camilla. She never complains about the press and she is very helpful to the reporters and photographers who cover her events. Kate and William usually never turn around when they arrive at the event and smile for the cameras Camilla interacts with the press with such grace especially given how she was vilified by them for yearsCamilla works her butt off and unlike Diana never went and talked to the press about her private lifeYou guys are acting like Diana was a saint but she wasn't. She started having an affair before Charles went back to Camilla and then openly spoke about her private life with the press Camilla is actually one of my favorite members of the royal familyAs someone who was a reporter for two years I appreciate anyone who tries to make our jobs a little easier Prince Charles I admire as well. After all the unfair public hate he received he didn't go hide in a. Corner but still went out and did a lot of work and did a good job raising two boys as a single parentHe also helped to arrange the press deal that allowed William and Harry to go through school with relative peaceSo please don't just act like Camilla and Charles are these awful human beings because they are two of my favorite members of the Royal familyBesides the queen and the duke of e. No one in the family works harderI especially admire camillas work on prevention of violence against women

Wow, Sarah. Who am I to say who anyone should or shouldn't respect and admire, but you couldn't be more wrong where some facts are concerned. I would hope more research is done on a subject before they get a glowing endorsement from the press.

Camilla played a role at *some* level from before C&D were married. She never intended to fully withdraw from the picture and even pretended to befriend a 19 year old Lady Diana to protect her own "interest" in the connection to Charles.

Diana was in a no-win situation with a husband who, because of his upbringing and status, was completely unprepared to be supportive of her as a wife, or a princess. And when he became increasingly resentful of his wife's popularity, which only added to the stress on a high profile the marriage, guess who was more than willing to offer a sympathetic ear? How does any wife win against that?

Did Diana use the press? Absolutely. But consider what she was up against, including a RF who sanctioned Charles' relationship with Camilla. AND, Diana wasn't exactly free to walk away with her children; she needed public support to protect her. It certainly wasn't coming from within her four walls.

And C&C absolutely used the press against Diana to make Charles look like the victim in his marriage while attempting to chip away at Diana's reputation and public support.

If the press is impressed by and content with a willing smile and wave, then Camilla is their "Queen." In the meantime, I'll stick with my opinions which are based on character.

Add to that, that Charles and Camilla bowed their knees at the altar for all to see and they openly repented before God and man of their sins. God says if we confess our sins He is faithful and Just to forgive our sins. If it is good enough for God, it surely should be good enough for us. We are to have aught against anyone anyhow.

I think the points you brought out are very valid ones. I think everyone has learned their lesson and they will not forget them.

Just like the press said Elizabeth and Phillip were cold and aloof parents and they spun that yarn for years. Now that the family videos and photos have been shared publicly those unravel the falsehoods joyfully and poignantly.

Having read a number of books on the subject including the latest semi-authorised biography of Charles - there is absolutely no evidence to suggest that Diana had any affairs before Charles resumed his relationship with Camilla - if he ever ended it. That autobiography makes it clear that even if Charles was not having a physical affair with Camilla throughout the early years of his marriage to Diana - he had a close emotional one with her - inappropriate to a newly married man - and the photographs themselves show her attempting to insinuate herself with Diana. Diana didn't turn to Hewett until 1986 - well after Charles was again involved with Camilla which most researched sources put in 1984, following Harry's birth - if not earlier. I find nothing so repulsive - and I'm intentionally using a very strong word than this effort by Charles' supporters to try to put unproven filth on a dead woman without a shred of evidence in any well-researched source. I'm sure Camilla works hard with the press winning them over is her only hope of wearing the crown she clearly craves - since she remains extremely unpopular with the public - the bottom of every poll and more tolerated than loved by those who do accept her. She has no reputation for being hard-working. Charles does. However the idea as Sarah suggests above that Camilla works as hard as Anne or even Sophie is simply wrong. As for repenting before God or anyone else, I don't believe she has sincerely done so for a moment or the constant attacks against Diana's reputation wouldn't be continuing. Camilla does support several charities that are particularly close to my heart but that doesn't make her a nice person. I will repeat again, I thought her conduct appalling well before I even knew she and Charles were having an affair during his marriage or that he was wearing cuff links she had given him or any of this other conduct. I remember seeing those photos of her with Diana and wondering what the hell Camilla thought she was about and how awful for Diana - I wasn't much older and knew how I would feel if some old girlfriend of my fiance was trying to make nice to me.Do I admire Charles - in some ways, yes professionally, but not personally - he is as responsible as Camilla for not pushing her out of that marriage. Do I think he was a good father? Not particularly. I think he spent more time with Camilla than the boys and one reason William drew so close to the Middletons was a lack of connection with his father. The lack of interest he has shown in his father's projects is telling - the same with Harry. We are all entitled to our differing opinions - but painting Diana as some kind of adulteress before Charles returned to Camilla is simply wrong. Charles and Diana were not a well-suited couple but without Camilla, I think there is a chance the marriage might have worked. We will never know how much emotional influence Camilla had on its breakdown but I suspect it was substantial. The one private tape we have of them speaking show her fawning and flattering. As far as I'm concerned, her involvement in the marriage was as a form of emotional abuse on Diana and Camilla is a hypocrite as to abuse of women.

Slightly off topic, although it is about Team GB and I wanted to say something because the men's gymnastics team finals just finished...So one of the men on the British gymnastics team, Louis Smith, tweeted just a few months ago "our sport has its moments :P" with a zoomed in picture of the 2004 Olympic women's all-around champion's butt at those Olympics....when she was 16. When people complained, he refused to apologize and blocked everyone who called it inappropriate. Team GB said nothing to him about it. Although in August when he tweeted to complain about the judging at the National Championships, they made him apologize and take those tweets down. Disappointing that someone who already has 2 Olympic medals from 2012 and is a gold medal favorite on pommel horse in Rio was not held at all accountable for horrible online behavior. Disappointed in Team GB about that for sure. Obviously has nothing to do with Kate, but I thought it's important to mention (and relevant enough for this post) because people have to say something if Team GB won't.

Maggie, that is disappointing :( Hopefully Team GB will get on that! They are not only representing their Country, but are in Role Model Mode for young people around the world....Thx for bringing that up. You are right it's not about W&K, but with all the conversations we have about the awareness of representing "One's Country".... I think it's very appropriate to have mentioned it!

It was just announced the duke of Westminster died I think it is safe to assume Prince William will attend the funeral since he is his godson and that the dukes son is George's godfather I would hope Kate went to show respect especially since the duke of Westminster let them borrow his plane numerous times and seems to be really close to the royal family

I'm torn on it Anon 03.04. I could see her do both. I could absolutley see her go. But also see her not going. The Queen for example rarely goes to weddings and funerals unless immensly close family etc. Partly because she gets ALOT of invitations, but a big deal is also because she pulls focus. Both from the bride/deceased but also brings photographers. And while Kate is not nearly the Queen, she is very much photographed and a "pull" for focus. So I could see her sit this one out since it's more of a "Williams relation" than hers. But I could also see her wanting to go and pay her respects. I think neither things would comment on her closeness or thankfullness for the duke though.

I think the family has already paid its respects in France. There may be a morepublic memorial later for the public and/or less close friends and acquaintances. This was not a man who sought attention and I believe his wishwould be for a very private, quiet farewell.

Neither did I, apparently. But does anyone else giving an opinion in the above thread really know? The so-called vacation and all details were based on rumors. There is no actual photo clearly showing the family in France.They could have been at Anmer the whole time-can anyone prove they weren't?There was never confirmation. There is no announced memorial for the Duke that I know of, onlythat his grouse hunt was canceled. The Duke could have fallen ill in Franceand could easily have flown home on his private plane, along with the Cambridges.Supposition based on rumor,etc...

Sarah, according to Charlotte and I think.Hello magazine, he died Tuesday and the Cambridges didn't return until Friday. I actually question that as William was seen flying for the emergency service Friday. So I don't know what you are talking about, either.

The Duke of Westminster's family had been close to the monarch since 1066. His ancestor was first cousin to William the Conqueror and before that they were aristocracy in France and close to the Monarchs there. The Duke's wife is Russian aristocracy.

There is a Royal lull at the moment and they have to print something, or so they think. I think Charles loves his boys and Kate. I seriously doubt he has any hard feelings towards the Middletons. I think Camilla is smart enough not to start trouble. She wants to be queen. It is all the priddle praddle of a bored press.I doubt everything KN writes. Everything. I skip over her articles.

I am quite sure Kate WILL attend the funeral. She is friends with the Van Custem boys and one of them is married to Tamara Grosvenor, the Duke's daughter. Plus, the Duke's son is George's godfather. That makes it a family thing. In addition, the Duke's wife is William's godfather. Even more of a family thing. As a Duchess and future queen she will attend as the Duke was a highly decorated and honored man of the aristocracy. The funeral of the Duke will be a grand affair of state.

The Duke of Westminster's sister, Jane, is the mother of Ted Inne Ker, Pippa's roommate at university and current friend. (Pippa also roomed with the Earl George Percy and dated JJ Jardine Patterson for three years while at university.)

You know Kate, James and Carole Middleton all sat together not far from William at the concert for Diana.What surprised me is that Pippa was there with her date, JJ Jardine Patterson. She dated him for three+ years at university. Near them was the son of the Duke of Westminster seated with his mother, and Zara and Mike. So William seated Kate and her family in prominent seating, not just off to the side.

I guess JJ will be connected to Pippa inadvertently anyway since his brother Dave's wife is godparent to either George or Charlotte. Dave married a close friend of both William and Kate, Emilia D'erlanger or something like that.

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